Typically on Inauguration Day, people across the country gather to watch the swearing in of the next president of the United States. However, the coronavirus pandemic has changed that for the 2021 Inauguration Day.
While many in-person gatherings are canceled, the Texas Democratic Women of the Brazos Valley are instead coming together virtually to watch the event.
”We’re having a Zoom party, and everyone is invited. We’ve got the link on the Texas Democratic Women of the Brazos Valley Facebook page, which is public so anyone can go out and Zoom in,” said Janet Dudding, president of the Texas Democratic Women of the Brazos Valley.
The virtual gathering will begin at 11 a.m. CST. The group says there will prizes ready for those wearing Chuck Taylor shoes in celebration of Kamala Harris, the first female vice president.
”We’ve been waiting for this moment our entire lives. We’ve got a woman coming in as the vice president of the United States, and not just a woman but a woman of color,” said Dudding.
The 2020 Election brought about firsts for the country, and even for many Americans, including Jorvis McGee. The South Texas resident says he was inspired by his ability to create change.
”I actually became very actively involved in this election. I was actually a voter registrar here in Kleberg County. I actually registered the most people to vote in the election for this time,” said McGee.
McGee was among many others who were planning on attending this year's inauguration in-person despite the pandemic, but many hotels have canceled reservations following the riot at the U.S. Capitol.
He received an email from the Inauguration Committee recommending it may not be the best time to travel.
”I mean after January 6th, you know, that was just like, you know, no one expected something like that to happen,” McGee added.
Now he will watch it virtually, disappointed that the opportunity to witness his first inauguration in person will not happen.
”Not everyone has been to an inauguration, so to be a part of that and just to be a part of history no matter who wins the election, first thing is you’re going to be a part of history,” said Mcgee.